Elizabeth Eaton, presiding bishop of the ELCA, released a pastoral message Jan. 24 on recent executive orders, noting the “peaceful transfer of power central to our democracy, followed by sweeping actions by the incoming Trump administration.”
Noting the guidance we receive from Martin Luther’s words in the Large Catechism, her statement says, in part: “In the fourth petition of the Lord’s Prayer, where we pray ‘Give us this day our daily bread,’ Luther writes about the importance of praying for our leaders, asking God to grant them wisdom and strength. He also speaks to the responsibility of leaders to provide stability, sufficiency and equity ….
“This past week has been one of rapid and cascading change, from the inauguration of a new president and vice president to the flurry of activity in government orders and regulations. The policies and decisions reflected in this week’s executive orders and regulatory changes have the potential to profoundly impact our lives, the well-being of our neighbors and the future of the planet. Therefore, I am concerned about the ways that many of the executive actions have created uncertainty and fear in our communities among neighbors struggling to survive, neighbors struggling to provide for their children, and neighbors struggling to be seen.
“As a church, we are called to speak up when the government distorts or denies the image of God in each person by endangering access to protection, peace and daily bread. Where harm or inequity occur, we are called by God to respond with love and advocacy.
“This church is committed to upholding the humanity of everyone, regardless of who we are or where we come from. We are a church called to love our neighbors and accompany all people in their joys and struggles. We must remain steadfast in this calling ….”
Read the full statement here.
